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Effect of meropenem on the intestinal microflora
T Bergan1, C E Nord, S B Thorsteinsson
1Department of Microbiology, Institute of Pharmacy, University of Oslo, Norway.
Summary
Meropenem treatment altered gut microbiota in healthy volunteers, decreasing beneficial bacteria like enterobacteria and increasing enterococci. Intestinal flora normalized within two weeks post-treatment.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Pharmacology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Meropenem is a broad-spectrum carbapenem antibiotic used for serious bacterial infections.
- Antibiotic administration can significantly impact the composition of the human gut microbiota.
- Understanding these effects is crucial for managing potential side effects and optimizing treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of meropenem administration on the intestinal flora in healthy volunteers.
- To quantify changes in specific bacterial groups during and after meropenem treatment.
Main Methods:
- Ten healthy volunteers received intravenous meropenem (500 mg) thrice daily for seven days.
- Stool specimens were collected pre-treatment, during treatment, and post-treatment.
- Bacterial populations including enterobacteria, streptococci, enterococci, clostridia, bacteroides, and cocci/rods were enumerated.
Main Results:
- Meropenem administration led to a decrease in enterobacteria and streptococci.
- An increase in enterococci was observed during meropenem treatment.
- Clostridia, bacteroides, and gram-negative cocci decreased, while gram-positive cocci and rods remained unchanged.
Conclusions:
- Meropenem significantly alters the gut microbiota composition in healthy individuals.
- The intestinal flora demonstrated resilience, returning to baseline levels within two weeks after meropenem cessation.